Govt accepts drinking water and money donations for drought stricken people

The Prime Minister’s Office is encouraging all Thais to donate money and bottles of water to help those affected by the drought crisis.

Minister to the Prime Minister’s Office M.L. Panadda Disakul said the donations will be delivered to more than 100 centers set up nationwide at the initiative of His Majesty the King to provide water for consumption.

Donations have so far been made by 13 organizations, both public and private. The water distribution centers under the Royal Patronage have been set up in 53 provinces. Residents in those provinces have all expressed their gratitude towards His Majesty the King for his concern for their plight.

Meanwhile, Transport Minister Prajin Jantong said road collapses had been reported in many areas especially roads running along dried-up canals. 127 spots have already been repaired and now opened to traffic.

Four more spots which are located along Khlong 13 and 14 canals in Pathum Thani, are still being fixed. He said road collapses are caused by the lack of water to maintain the integrity of the road and heavy trucks.

Additional road construction is expected to take place to promote long term safety. Roads will be built further away from the canal. It is estimated that 750 million baht will be spent on the construction.